#ministry youngminister youngpreacher RevJonatasBragatto

[jonatasbragatto]

MY MINISTRY JOURNEY

Looking back to all these years in ministry I can only be thankful to God for ordering my steps through this journey. I started as a preacher very early in life, having the opportunity to preach my first sermon when I was eleven years old in the south of Brazil. I remember that on the occasion I had a conviction in my heart that that was my vocation in life and filled with love and passion I went on this journey to dedicate my life, youth and resources to prepare myself to serve the best in God’s Kingdom.

Being the youngest in my class as a student of Theology and going into full-time seminary when I was 15 years old, required from me determination and focus to overcome the barriers of lack of experience and young age. Throughout the years I had many amazing opportunities to meet incredible people that influenced my in such a positive way on this journey, today I recognise how valuable is for young ministers and people who are starting in ministry to surround themselves with experienced people who are prepared to correct and coach you in your journey. You will need the right people by your side.

Learning the protocols of ministry and being open to serve others are key qualities to develop in God’s eyes a successful journey. Not every environment is the same, not every church is the same, not every pastor or preacher is the same. The quickest you can learn and adapt to your environment, the more you will be able to help those under your care. Don’t expect to start from the top. Don’t expect to have the big crowds on your first meetings and thousands buying your books. Be prepared to be rejected and criticised, be prepared to work in areas that you wouldn’t normally chose to work - be prepared to serve before expecting to be served - learning from Christ, who being the Son of God, did not hesitate to wash the feet of His disciples.

More important than starting the journey is to finish it properly. If you are a young minister and wish to fulfil your mission in this life, be constant in learning and serving others, with the understanding that the true reward comes from God. Trust that He will lead and guide you, He will guide your steps and give you the wisdom necessary to overcome all challenges. Be determined to finish your race the right way, by leaving a legacy that will inspire others to grow in their spiritual journey and vocation in God. May you hear on that great day: well done!

The Rev’d Jonatas Bragatto